Two major administrative buildings in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh—Satpura Bhawan and Vindhyachal Bhawan—are slated for demolition due to a series of fire incidents that have affected their standing. The demolition process will commence with the approximately 40-year-old Satpura Bhawan, followed by Vindhyachal Bhawan, which will remain untouched until the first building’s demolition and reconstruction are fully completed.
A new, state-of-the-art structure is set to replace Satpura Bhawan, designed to be nine floors (G+9) high. This new facility will not only accommodate all employees and officers currently in Vindhyachal Bhawan but will also provide a significant upgrade to the state’s administrative infrastructure. The construction is projected to be completed within three years and three months.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has already drafted a preliminary proposal for this ambitious project. A detailed presentation will soon be made to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav for his review. Following his feedback, the proposal will be submitted to the state Cabinet for approval.
The proposal includes two construction options: a six-floor (G+6) building or a nine-floor (G+9) structure. The PWD favors the G+9 option, which is estimated to cost approximately Rs 875 crore, compared to Rs 760 crore for the G+6 design. For an additional investment of Rs 125 crore, the state can gain three extra floors, enhancing capacity and utility in the long run.
A critical consideration in the new building’s design is its proximity to the Mantralaya, where the state ministry is located. While the new structure aims to be substantial, there are concerns regarding its height in relation to the Mantralaya, which houses key officials including the Chief Minister. Given that the Mantralaya is situated on a higher elevation than the current Bhawans, it is essential to preserve its architectural dignity.
A final decision regarding the building’s height will be made after thorough discussions. Should the nine-story structure be deemed too tall in comparison to the Mantralaya, the state may choose to proceed with the six-floor design instead.
The new building promises to significantly increase both capacity and facilities compared to the existing Satpura Bhawan. While the old structure accommodates around 1,500 people and covers 37,000 square meters, the new facility will span 80,000 square meters—more than double the current area—allowing it to house over 3,000 employees. This transformation is expected to greatly enhance the efficiency and stature of Madhya Pradesh’s administrative operations, providing a modern and high-capacity workspace for state employees.
